The Phillip Island Nature Parks Board of Management has approved the Nature Parks’ Annual Business Plan and Budget for the 2014-15 financial year.

At its June meeting, the Board discussed some exciting new upcoming projects, including the new eco-boat tour and the Nobbies exhibition redevelopment.

A number of high-quality tenders have been received for the joint Nature Parks and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) exhibition at the Nobbies Centre and are currently being evaluated. The high-tech world class exhibition is scheduled to open in December 2015.

The new eco-boat tour is scheduled to launch in December 2014 in partnership with Wildlife Coast Cruises. The new boat to be used for this tour is currently under construction.

The Board noted the success of the 2013-14 financial year with an increase in both visitation and revenue.

The Board also noted the significant increase in the average numbers of penguins crossing at the Penguin Parade in May. The increase is attributed to the ‘false breeding season’ - an annual event when little penguins come ashore and engage in courtship behaviour as a result of environmental conditions mimicking spring.

“The Board congratulates the Nature Parks’ management team and all its dedicated staff for a very successful year in both environmental care initiatives and visitor numbers,” said Chairman Jeff Floyd. “We are all very excited about these new initiatives which will place the Nature Parks on a sound foundation for ongoing sustainability.”